MIL-HDBK-1025/5
Fixed Versus Floating Pier System
2.3.2
System Selection
2.3.2.1
The decision to select fixed or floating piers for any small
a)
craft harbor basin shall be based on economy, tidal range, safety and
convenience.
A combination of fixed and floating piers shall generally be
b)
considered satisfactory for some sites.
Advantages of a fixed-pier system are:
c)
1) Usually less expensive to construct.
2) Less expensive to maintain.
3) Stronger, more durable and stable.
4) Will bear heavier loadings.
5) Withstand impact more readily than floating-pier system.
Advantages of a floating-pier system are:
d)
1) Constancy of level between pier and water
2) Rearrangement of layout is possible.
3) Adjustment of mooring lines is unnecessary
4) Less likelihood of damage to boats under tidal conditions.
Selection Criteria.
These include the following:
2.3.2.2
In harbor basins, where water surface levels do not fluctuate
a)
more than 2 ft (.61 m) and the water depth is about 20 ft (6.1 m) or less, the
berthing docks and slips should usually be of fixed construction.
Fixed berths should be considered for tidal ranges of up to
b)
5 ft (1.5 m).
Where water surface levels fluctuate more than 5 ft, a
c)
floating-pier system is mandatory.
Fixed-Pier Berthing Systems
2.3.3
These include the following:
General Features.
2.3.3.1
Piers shall be no wider than safe pedestrian and handcart
a)
traffic requires.
Fingers shall be no wider than 3 ft (.91 m).
b)
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